Saturday, November 10, 2018

Thiruvananthapuram: The in-principle approval from Union government for implementation of public-private partnership (PPP) model for operation, management and development of Trivandrum International Airport has elicited mixed response from stakeholders.
The proposal has been approved at a time when steps taken by the state government for the development of the airport have reached a crucial stage. The Union cabinet on Thursday gave in-principle nod for PPP development of the airport.

While the passengers welcome the decision, airport authorities and people’s representatives are apprehensive about the move, which lacks clarity on the impact on employees and stakeholders.

Chairman of airport users’ consultative committee S N Raghuchandran Nair said that the proposal will be a boost to the multi-modal hub proposed at the airport and is a golden opportunity for the airline operators.
CM Pinarayi Vijayan asked the Union government to review the decision to implement PPP model for six airports including Trivandrum airport. “It is Union government’s move to privatize the civil aviation sector,” said Vijayan.

Mentioning the statement from Union government that PPP model will bring in efficiency, enhance revenue and help in development of airports, Vijayan said that enhanced revenue and investment can be achieved by retaining the airport in public sector.

Meanwhile, Shashi Tharoor, MP, demanded clarity from the Union minister for civil aviation Suresh Prabhu regarding the proposal. “Awaiting clarification from @sureshpprabhu as to what this means in practical terms for passengers, employees & other stakeholders. Hasty reactions ill-advised but many anxieties need2b dispelled,” he tweeted.
10/11/18 Anasooya S/Times of India